The U.S. Air Force's F-22 program office has indicated its intent to procure lead integrator services from Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) to address future modernization requirements for the fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
USAF expects to award the Advanced Raptor Enhancement & Sustainment indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to Lockheed through a sole-source acquisition process by June next year, according to a presolicitaion notice posted Wednesday.
The service noted the company's aeronautics segment possesses the technical data and experience needed to facilitate the ARES program as the branch's sole F-22 manufacturer.
ARES will succeed the Raptor Enhancement, Development and Integration II contract and will have a five-year base ordering period plus one five-year option.
Responsibilities listed in the notice include studies, analyses and demonstration; test force and system laboratory support; and flight software modernization and sustainment.
